A Fiscal-Cliff Hedge

Prepare stock portfolios while hedging costs are low in case members of Congress can't compromise before the new year.

If you are wondering what to do if Washington does not take action before Dec. 31 on planned spending cuts and tax hikes, and the economy rushes over the fiscal cliff, consider the following story about a Midwest farmer who lived near a big river.

The farmer heard news reports the river would flood and everyone should evacuate. He stayed put because he believed the Lord would provide.